Los Angeles County’s largest lake is back in business for the summer! Castaic Lake is a premier summer getaway from the city, requiring only a 30-40 minute drive from DTLA via I-5.
Now’s the time to start planning a visit, because the recreational swim area is open on weekends as of May 20th. Other attractions include the massive Cali Splash inflatable water park opening Saturday, boat rentals, and more quintessential summer activities. Pack your sunscreen, prepare a picnic, and keep reading for everything to know before you hit the road.
Swimming at Castaic Lake
The Castaic Lake State Recreation Area includes both an Upper Lake and a Lower Lake lagoon with 29 total miles of shoreline, but swimming is only permitted at the Lower Lake’s designated Swim Beach when lifeguards are present. There is no entry fee to enjoy Swim Beach.
🗓️ Opening hours and dates: The swim area will open from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. on weekends from May 20th to June 17th, and then daily from June 18th to Sept. 4th.
Cali Splash Park
One of Castaic Lake’s most popular attractions is Cali Splash Park, which opens for the season this Saturday. This is SoCal’s largest inflatable aquapark, which comprises 45 epic floating obstacles and features. Sessions are available every 2 hours with a 2-hour duration, or you can also purchase a full day or full season pass. Kids over 9 may participate alone, but an adult must accompany kids from 4-8 years old.
🗓️ Opening hours and dates: Cali Splash Park opens on Saturday, May 24th, and visitors can enjoy it from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday until September 28th, 2025.
More summer activities at Castaic Lake
While a cool dip in the lake is certainly enough motivation to escape the SoCal heat, Castaic Lake offers numerous other recreational activities that tap into all the summer nostalgia. The Upper Lake is designated for power boating, jet skiing, wakeboarding, and sailing, and the Lower Lake is reserved for non-motorized activities like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding.
Both lakes offer great fishing and are known for record-breaking bass, trout, and catfish. Some popular fishing areas are the lagoon’s fishing pier and the Upper Lake’s east arm. You can also enjoy over 7 miles of trails for hiking and biking, tent and RV camping with on-site amenities, and picnic areas.
Note that Castaic Lake SRA is one of the few California State Parks that does not accept the Annual State Parks Pass, and parking fees cost $12 per vehicle.
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